Kildare manager Brian Dowling reacts to brilliant away win
The Kildare hurlers travelled to Owenbeg to take on Derry and emerged as 2-25 to 0-17 victors to register their second win in the Allianz Hurling League Division 2
Kildare manager Brian Dowling was delighted with the win and eluded to the level of commitment and work-rate throughout the team in their 2-25 to 0-17 over Derry.
Although Cathal Dowling didn't get on the scoreboard, he set the tempo with his attitude and work-rate and he was more than pleased with 2-19 from the other five attackers under difficult conditions.
Derry have had a poor start to the league coming to their home grounds is always a tough task. Dowling was quick to point out that this fixture was always going to be a must win game in the search for promotion. Derry would have been one of the favourites to go up before a ball was pucked.
Despite it being a fine team performance, Dowling was quick to compliment Cathal McCabe and Cian Boran who contributed five points from half back. He also spoke about the importance of Jack Sheridan's opening goal.
There were aspects of the second half that the Kildare Manager felt that needed to improve, but in general he was very happy with the performance.
Having lost the likes of James Burke and Muiris Curtin to sickness, Dowling was delighted with the strength of the squad and while he used five subs it could be five different ones next week. The three debutants were excellent in a recent challenge and worthy of game time against Derry.
With three games left Dowling was well aware that promotion is in Kildare's own hands. One game at a time and having watched Donegal once he knows they will provide a formidable challenge.
The Kildare Manager concluded by mentioning the long trip home would be a little easier with two points in the bag.